Subtle and restrained are two words that will almost certainly never be used to describe this 1981 Stutz Blackhawk. Some will argue that tasteful should be added to that list, although it is undeniably rare. The Blackhawk was a favorite with a group of celebrities during its production life, and you could channel your inner Elvis, Frank Sinatra, or Lucille Ball by parking this survivor in your garage. The seller has listed the Stutz here on eBay in San Antonio, Texas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $10,200 with plenty of time remaining on this auction.

Initially founded by Harry C. Stutz in 1911 as the Ideal Motor Car Company, Stutz underwent a 1913 rebrand reflecting its founder’s name. It produced low-volume luxury cars for the well-heeled until the company was declared bankrupt in 1937. The marque remained dormant until 1968, when New York banker James O’Donnell staged a revival. He cast his net, searching for someone to pen a new model that would stand out in the Personal Luxury Car sector, and joined forces with Virgil Exner to develop the Blackhawk. Exner gave the world Chrysler’s “Forward Look” design philosophy, but, unconstrained by corporate requirements, he let his imagination run wild with the Stutz. From the enormous grille to the sweeping lines and the spare tire protruding through the decklid, the Blackhawk was undeniably unique. The production process and hand-built nature of these cars made them among the most expensive production cars sold in North America at the time, guaranteeing that only the very wealthy could afford to buy one. This 1981 example is finished in a two-tone combination of Beige and Maroon, and it presents well from a distance. However, close inspection reveals a few paint imperfections, combined with rust on the wire wheels and the chrome trim near the rockers. However, there is no evidence of structural or panel rust, while the remaining trim and the glass are in good order.

The interior of the Blackhawk reflects the original sticker price, with upholstered surfaces finished in hand-stitched Connolly leather. Timber veneer covers many surfaces, while almost every bright trim piece is gold-plated. It also features practically every luxury item that you would expect in a classic of this caliber, including climate-controlled air conditioning, power windows, power locks, six-way power seats, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a premium stereo. Those with enough money in their wallet could even order a Blackhawk with mink carpet. This car’s interior looks good for its age, with the leather showing only typical age wrinkles. The carpet is in good order, there is no trim deterioration, and no evidence of UV damage. The Prince onboard computer is inoperative, and although a new spare is included, its condition is unknown.

Initially powered by Pontiac’s 455ci V8 producing a claimed 425hp, the Blackhawk evolved during its production life to utilize various powerplants. This car features a 305ci Chevrolet V8 mated to a three-speed automatic transmission. With a high curb weight and relatively low engine power, the Blackhawk’s performance can best be described as modest. The drivetrain is one of the strengths of these cars, as using production components from various manufacturers keeps parts readily available. The seller has recently performed work on this classic to improve its mechanical health. It features a new carburetor, a new fuel tank, a fuel pump, a radiator, a distributor, and new rear wheel cylinders. The tires have plenty of tread, although the seller recommends replacing them due to age. Otherwise, it appears that this Stutz is a turnkey proposition.

Reviving the Stutz marque and producing the Blackhawk must have seemed like a good idea at the time, but the sticker price severely limited the potential buyer pool. Therefore, sales tended to occupy that uncomfortable region between “not very many” and “none.” It is widely believed that only around 500 of these classics left the factory between 1971 and 1987, and the fact that this is only the seventh example we have seen at Barn Finds probably best reflects their rarity. This Blackhawk will have limited appeal, but if you find the idea of slipping behind the wheel of a classic that will draw enormous crowds at a Cars & Coffee tempting, perhaps it is the car for you.